Official feed and food control laboratories

In the UK, official feed and food laboratories are Public and Agricultural Analysts and Food Examiners (microbiology laboratories) that undertake work for local authorities. Other designated laboratories undertake official controls in specified areas.

All official laboratories must employ staff who have qualifications defined by national legislation. In addition, to be named an official control laboratory, laboratories must have a Public or Agricultural Analyst (formally appointed by a local authority) or a qualified Food Examiner.

We are responsible for appointing the majority of official feed and food control laboratories in the UK according to the National Control Plan, as required by Regulation 882/2004. We do not own or operate any of these laboratories.